Religious unity was of paramount importance to God for Israel. To help ensure union among the people, the Lord commanded annual festivals where worshipers would gather at the Tabernacle/Temple from across the land. These occasions were times of praise and thanksgiving, as the Law said, "you shall rejoice in your feast" (Deuteronomy 16:14). Giving back to God was a highlight of the feast day celebrations: "Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which He has given you" (Deuteronomy 16:17).